India exported a total of 7.75 lakh tonnes of sugar during the 2024-25 marketing year, which ran from October 2024 to September 2025, according to the All India Sugar Trade Association (AISTA). The government had set a total export quota of 10 lakh tonnes for the year, meaning the actual exports fell short of the sanctioned target.
Of the total exports, white sugar accounted for 6.13 lakh tonnes, while refined sugar contributed 1.04 lakh tonnes. Exports of raw sugar stood at 33,338 tonnes, and approximately 21,000 tonnes of raw sugar were delivered to Special Economic Zones (SEZs), classified as deemed exports.
The major destinations for Indian sugar exports included Djibouti (1.46 lakh tonnes), Somalia (1.35 lakh tonnes), Sri Lanka (1.34 lakh tonnes), and Afghanistan (75,533 tonnes). These countries have historically been key buyers of Indian sugar, reflecting strong trade ties with domestic producers.
AISTA highlighted concerns over the shortfall in achieving the full export quota. The association urged the government to announce the sugar export quota for the 2025-26 marketing year at the earliest to ensure strategic planning and continued momentum in exports. Officials noted that timely quota allocation is crucial to maintaining India’s position in the global sugar market and supporting domestic sugar mills.
India’s sugar export performance comes amid fluctuating global sugar prices and domestic production challenges. The government’s export policy aims to balance local supply-demand dynamics while promoting India as a key player in international sugar trade. Analysts believe that achieving full export quotas could help stabilize domestic sugar prices and enhance revenue for farmers and producers.
While the export volume did not reach the full quota, the industry remains optimistic about the upcoming marketing year. Early policy clarity and international market engagement are expected to play a significant role in boosting India’s sugar exports.
With a growing demand for sugar in African and Asian markets, India continues to strengthen its footprint in the global sugar trade, offering both white and refined sugar to meet international standards. The government’s support through timely quota approvals will be critical in sustaining this growth trend.
